Research & Innovation Associate

University of Notre Dame • Notre Dame, IN

3d • $0 - $60,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Research & Innovation Associate plays an integral role in supporting the Health & Performance team by advancing research, performance testing, and data-driven initiatives that enhance the student-athlete experience. Working across Sports Medicine, Strength & Conditioning, Sport Psychology, Nutrition, and Analytics, this position helps ensure the effective collection, management, and application of performance data to support athlete development and well-being. This role is responsible for facilitating internal and external research projects, coordinating performance testing activities, and maintaining the equipment and systems necessary to support accurate data collection. Responsibilities include equipment calibration, troubleshooting, maintenance, data preparation, analysis, and visualization to provide meaningful insights that inform decision-making across the department. Reporting to the Sr. Associate Athletics Director, the Research & Innovation Associate will collaborate closely with Health & Performance staff and serve as a key partner in advancing evidence-based practices and innovative solutions that support competitive excellence. The position is expected to actively participate in regular meetings with Health & Performance leadership and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration.

Requirements

• 6 to 12 months of research experience required
• Bachelor's degree in kinesiology, biomechanics, physiology, data science, other sports-related scientific discipline or related discipline
• Superb verbal and written communication skills
• Strong organizational and record keeping skills.
• Outstanding interpersonal and teamwork skills with the capacity to work with a wide variety of constituents, including coaching staff members, support staff members, and student-athletes
• Excellent judgment and ability to maintain confidentiality
• Exemplary commitment to both the University and department’s mission
• Proven ability to prioritize and perform complex and varied assignments in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Knowledge of NCAA rules and regulations
• Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.
• This position requires a regular on-campus presence ( NO REMOTE WORK ).

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree preferred

Responsibilities

• Support performance testing initiatives across all Health & Performance areas, ensuring accurate and reliable data collection.
• Coordinate and facilitate internal and external research projects that support student-athlete health, wellness, and performance.
• Perform equipment calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal functionality and data integrity.
• Prepare, manage, analyze, and visualize performance data to generate actionable insights for Health & Performance staff.
• Collaborate with Sports Medicine, Strength & Conditioning, Sport Psychology, Nutrition, and Analytics professionals on interdisciplinary projects and initiatives.
• Attend and contribute to regular meetings with Health & Performance leadership and stakeholders.
• Support innovation and continuous improvement efforts that enhance athlete performance and operational effectiveness.

Benefits

• The University of Notre Dame is more than a workplace! We are a vibrant, mission-driven community where every employee is valued and supported. Rooted in a tradition of excellence and inspired by our Catholic character, Notre Dame is committed to fostering an environment of care that nurtures the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Here, you will find a deep sense of belonging, a culture that prioritizes well-being, and the opportunity to grow your career while being a force for good in the world. Whether contributing to world-class research, shaping the student experience, or supporting the University’s mission in other ways, you will be part of a dedicated team working to make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond. At Notre Dame, your work matters, and so do you!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level